Discover the Edam Cheese Market: A Dutch Tradition Come to Life

Imagine standing in a sun-dappled square, surrounded by stacks of golden cheese wheels, as men in crisp white uniforms and straw hats carry them on wooden sledges. The air hums with the chatter of traders, the clink of scales, and the occasional ripple of laughter. Welcome to the Edam Cheese Market, a centuries-old Dutch tradition that springs to life every summer in the picturesque town of Edam, just a stone’s throw from Amsterdam. This vibrant reenactment of historic cheese trading is more than a market—it’s a cultural celebration, a foodie’s delight, and a must-see for any traveler craving an authentic Dutch experience. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a cheese lover, or a family seeking a fun day out, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit to the Edam Cheese Market in 2025.

What is the Edam Cheese Market?

A Glimpse into History

The Edam Cheese Market traces its roots to the Middle Ages, when Edam was a bustling hub for cheese trading along the Netherlands’ waterways. Farmers brought their creamy, wax-coated Edam cheeses to the market by boat, where they were weighed, haggled over, and sold to merchants from across Europe. While modern commerce has shifted, Edam keeps this heritage alive with a lively reenactment that captures the spirit of those bygone days. Today, the market is a tribute to the town’s legacy and the global fame of Edam cheese, recognizable by its iconic red or yellow wax rind.

The Market in Action

Every Wednesday morning from July to August, Jan van Nieuwenhuizen Square transforms into a stage for tradition. The market kicks off at 10:30 AM, with cheese carriers—dressed in white and sporting colorful hats representing their guilds—parading through the square. They haul cheese-laden sledges to the historic weigh house, where each wheel is meticulously weighed and inspected. Traders in period costumes engage in animated bargaining, slapping hands to seal deals in a ritual known as “handjeklap.” The scene is both theatrical and authentic, offering a window into Dutch culture. Best of all, it’s free to attend, making it an accessible highlight for visitors.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Edam

Edam is just 20 miles north of Amsterdam, making it an easy day trip. The simplest way to get there is by bus: take Connexxion line 314 from Amsterdam Central Station to Edam’s bus station, a scenic 30-minute ride through Dutch countryside. Tickets cost around €5–€7; consider an OV-chipkaart for convenience. If driving, Edam is a 25-minute journey via the A7, with parking available near the town center (look for signs to Parkeerterrein Grote Kerk). Cyclists can enjoy a leisurely 90-minute ride from Amsterdam along well-marked bike paths, soaking in views of windmills and canals.

Market Details

The Edam Cheese Market typically runs from early July to mid-August, held on Wednesdays from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM. While 2025 dates are subject to confirmation, checking the official Edam Cheese Market website closer to your trip is wise. The market takes place in the heart of Edam at Jan van Nieuwenhuizen Square, a compact, cobblestoned plaza surrounded by quaint shops and cafes. It’s fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, with no entry fee. Arrive by 10:00 AM to snag a spot near the action, as the square fills up quickly.

Best Times to Visit

Summer mornings in Edam are mild, but the market can get busy by 11:00 AM. To beat the crowds, plan to arrive early and enjoy a coffee at a nearby cafe like De Fortuna. Bring sunscreen or a hat, as the square offers little shade, and pack a light raincoat for unexpected showers. If you’re combining Edam with other cheese markets like Alkmaar, note that Edam’s is smaller and more intimate, perfect for those seeking a less touristy vibe.

What to Expect at the Edam Cheese Market

The Market Experience

Stepping into the Edam Cheese Market feels like entering a living postcard. Golden cheese wheels, stacked high on sledges, gleam under the summer sun. Carriers move with practiced precision, their wooden clogs clattering on the cobblestones. The weigh house, a 16th-century gem, serves as the market’s centerpiece, where cheeses are weighed with theatrical flair. Local vendors line the square, offering samples of Edam cheese—mild and nutty or aged and crumbly—alongside fresh bread and stroopwafels. The atmosphere is festive, with folk music drifting through the air and children darting about, captivated by the spectacle.

Interactive Elements

Visitors can do more than watch. Many stalls offer free cheese tastings, letting you savor the difference between young and matured Edam. Some vendors sell small wheels or slices, perfect for souvenirs (vacuum-sealed options travel well). If you’re lucky, you might catch a demonstration of cheese-making or wax-coating. Guided tours, often led by local historians, are sometimes available—check with the Edam Tourist Office on arrival. Don’t miss the chance to snap photos with the cheese carriers, who are happy to pose between tasks.

Tips for Enjoyment

Wear comfortable shoes; the cobblestone square can be uneven. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, and consider a small backpack for souvenirs. Engage with the carriers or vendors—many speak English and love sharing stories about Edam’s cheese legacy. For the best views, position yourself near the weigh house, but avoid blocking the carriers’ paths. If traveling with kids, keep them close, as the crowd can thicken during peak moments.

Beyond the Market – Exploring Edam

Top Attractions

Edam is a treasure trove of charm beyond the cheese market. The Edam Museum, housed in a 400-year-old merchant’s home, offers a peek into the town’s past with exhibits on cheese trading and maritime history (€6 entry). The Grote Kerk, a soaring Gothic church, boasts stunning stained-glass windows and a peaceful garden (free to visit). Stroll along Edam’s canals, where leaning houses and drawbridges create a storybook scene. The Dam Square, a short walk from the market, is perfect for a post-market coffee.

Food and Drink

Edam’s culinary scene is a treat. Try Café de Gevangenpoort for hearty Dutch pancakes or fresh herring, a local delicacy. For cheese lovers, Kaaswinkel Edam offers expertly curated Edam wheels and pairings like mustard or chutney. If you’re craving something sweet, pick up stroopwafels from a market stall or Bakery Westerman. Many spots are budget-friendly, with lunch options under €10. For a sit-down meal, Restaurant De Fortuna serves traditional Dutch dishes in a cozy, canal-side setting. 

Nearby Destinations

Extend your day with a visit to Volendam, a lively fishing village 10 minutes away by bus, known for its seafood and traditional costumes. Alternatively, hop on a ferry to Marken, a tranquil island with wooden houses and a lighthouse (€10 round-trip). If you’re hooked on cheese markets, Alkmaar’s larger market (Fridays, April–September) is a 40-minute drive. These spots combine beautifully with Edam for a full day of Dutch culture.

Practical Tips for Tourists

Budget Tips

The market itself is free, and cheese samples keep costs low. Bus fares from Amsterdam are affordable, especially with group tickets (check Connexxion’s website). For souvenirs, small cheese wedges start at €5, while handmade crafts like wooden clogs are pricier (€20+). Save on meals by grabbing snacks from market stalls rather than restaurants. If cycling, rent bikes in Amsterdam for €10–€15 per day to avoid Edam’s limited rental options. You can book online tickets with SIGHTSEEINGO.

Family-Friendly Advice

The Edam Cheese Market is a hit with kids, who love the colorful costumes and cheese-tasting. The square is stroller-friendly, and nearby cafes like Het Edammertje have high chairs. Keep young children in sight during busy moments. For a break, head to the playground at Park de Spekkoek, a 5-minute walk. The Edam Museum offers kid-friendly exhibits, and canal boat tours (if available) are a relaxing family activity.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect the performers by staying out of their way during the reenactment. A smile and a “dank je” (thank you) go a long way when interacting with vendors. Photography is welcome, but ask permission before taking close-up shots of people. Tipping isn’t expected at market stalls, but rounding up the bill at cafes is appreciated. Embrace the laid-back Dutch vibe—Edam’s locals are warm and welcoming.

Sustainability Tips

Support Edam’s economy by buying from local vendors rather than chain stores. Opt for reusable bags for souvenirs, and refill water bottles at cafes to reduce waste. Choose public transport or cycling over driving to lower your carbon footprint. If purchasing cheese, ask for minimal packaging or bring a container for loose samples.

Conclusion

The Edam Cheese Market is a delightful blend of history, flavor, and Dutch charm, offering a morning of entertainment that’s as educational as it is enchanting. From the clatter of clogs to the tang of fresh Edam cheese, every moment immerses you in a tradition that’s thrived for centuries. Just a short trip from Amsterdam, it’s an easy and affordable way to experience the Netherlands at its most authentic. Mark your calendar for summer 2025, check the official Edam Cheese Market website for exact dates, and prepare for a day of discovery. Have you been to Edam or another Dutch cheese market? Share your tips below, or spread the word to fellow travelers—Edam’s magic is waiting!